Appendix B: Sample Presentation Outlines
Understanding A.D.H.D
- Simulation: I am going to give some instructions and I want you to follow along [while clips of overlapped music is playing and increasing in volume]. That is just a glimpse of what living with ADHD is like. It has been described as having multiple radio stations playing at the same time. I was diagnosed when I was 10 years old, and the older I get, the worse it gets. So, I have to change my game plan constantly in order to be successful. There are some theories that ADHD is not real, but simply poor behavior; I know from experience that this is not the case. Although this disorder can be disorienting and overwhelming, it can also lead to creative thinking, like Albert Einstein. He was very unconventional, impulsive, messy, and he was a genius.
- You can avoid misconceptions and understand how ADHD affects those who have it with a clear picture of what ADHD is.
- Understanding ADHD starts by looking at what happens in the brain, then identifying symptoms and treatments, and finally, knowing how to support those with the disorder.
A. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Definition
- Brain scans
- Neurotypical vs. ADHD
Now that you have a better understanding of the definition and how it differs from a non-ADHDer brain, let’s look at how this manifests itself with symptoms.
B. All of the symptoms of ADHD can be categorized into three areas: Motivate, Regulate, and Hyper-focus.
- Motivate or get going
- Regulate or keep going
- Hyperfocus – can’t stop going
Having identified and described the symptoms, we can now look at some treatments ways to support those with ADHD.
C. Although treatment can help, it will never cure ADHD, but success is still possible.
- Treatment
- How you can support someone with ADHD
- Successful people with ADHD
IV. We have looked at the neurology, symptoms and some successful examples of people with ADHD. Now you understand it is a real disorder that is both confusing and highly creative.
V. So when you meet someone with ADHD, adjust your expectations. You will most likely have to compete for their attention. Be informed; instead of criticizing, be creative, offer them a stress ball, give them a list. Work with them. Maybe one day they’ll return the favor when you need to think outside the box. Who knows – you could be talking to the next Einstein.
